SC Mandates Uniform State Remission Policies
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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Application Requirement: BEFORE, a convict had to proactively apply for premature release (remission). NOW, states must automatically consider eligible convicts without requiring a formal application from them or their relatives.
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Policy Framework: BEFORE, many states lacked clear guidelines for granting remission under Section 432 CrPC, leading to arbitrary decisions. NOW, all States and UTs are mandated to frame an exhaustive policy within two months.
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Digital Tracking: BEFORE, prison authorities relied on manual records, often missing eligibility dates. NOW, State and District Legal Services Authorities must maintain real-time portals tracking when convicts become eligible for premature release.
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Revocation Process: BEFORE, permanent remission could often be arbitrarily cancelled by the state. NOW, an order of cancellation must contain brief reasons and cannot be passed without giving the convict an opportunity to be heard.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)With reference to the Supreme Court's February 2025 directives on remission policies, consider the following statements: 1. The Court ruled that states can only consider remission if the convict or their relatives submit a formal application. 2. Remission is governed by Section 432 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), corresponding to Section 473 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). Which of the statements given above is/are correct?